1) What does it mean to be a Buddhist..?2) Is there an equivalent to the bible in Buddhism..?3) Would it be better to learn and sit in Meditation first or become a Buddhist and follow the scriptures..?

3) Would it be better to learn and sit in Meditation first or become a Buddhist and follow the scriptures..?

Both are complementary: practice and study alongside realisation/contemplation. See this..

http://www.budsas.org/ebud/ebdha003.htmWhat is known as Buddhism consists of three aspects, the Doctrinal (pariyatti), the Practical (pattipatti), and the Realisable (pativedha) which are interdependent and interrelated.

The late Gelugpa lineage master, Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche in his treatise work, 'Liberation in the Palm of Your Hand', 'Day 3: The Preliminaries: How to study and teach the Dharma' page 87:(see link for the book)

When I study, I increase my contemplation and meditation,When I contemplate, I increase my study and meditation,When I meditate, I increase my study and contemplation,I know how to gather them as the one foundationAnd take the Dharma as my Path

1) What does it mean to be a Buddhist..?2) Is there an equivalent to the bible in Buddhism..?3) Would it be better to learn and sit in Meditation first or become a Buddhist and follow the scriptures..?

Thank You

Mike

1. Well, I imagine that's a personal question, so for myself, it's self improvement.2. Many Buddhists wish for that very thing.3. Meditation first. But ensure that it's proper orthodox Buddhist mediation. Breath counting, Shamatha or something similar. I recommend you read about Buddhism in between meditation sessions, but make meditation your focus.

underthetree wrote:"What Makes You Not a Buddhist' by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse would give you a very readable and non-preachy introduction to the basics by a genuine master.

Second.

Equanimity is the ground. Love is the moisture. Compassion is the seed. Bodhicitta is the result.

"All memories and thoughts are the union of emptiness and knowing, the Mind.Without attachment, self-liberating, like a snake in a knot.Through the qualities of meditating in that way,Mental obscurations are purified and the dharmakaya is attained."